Solar Power Costs

Solar Power Costs

The total cost of a fully installed PV system depends on a number of factors. System size plays the largest role in determining costs, but equipment brand and ease of installation will also impact the bottom line. In general, a typical system of 5.8kW (which can offset up to $120 per month of your electric bill) will cost between $4.00 - $4.50 per watt.  However, once you factor in the rebates and tax credits, the cost drops down to approximately $1.00 - $1.50 per watt. Although this is a significant investment, don’t let the “sticker shock” scare you away. Compared to paying electric bills for the next 30+ years, it is one of the best investments you can make (please visit our Solar Payback and Financials page for details).

 

Average Costs
Typical System of 5,760 Watts

  
Total System Cost (parts and installation)   $23,526
  
LIPA Rebate (covered by Horizon Solar) - $10,080
  
Customer's Gross Cost:   $13,446
  
State Tax Credit
(25% system costs, $5,000 max.)
  - $4,034
  
Federal Tax Credit
(30% system costs, no maximum)
  - $3,361
  
Federal Tax Adjustment
(Income tax bracket X State tax credit)
  + $941
 
  
Net Cost after rebate & tax credits:   $6,992

Average Production and Financial Benefits
Typical System of 5,760 Watts

   
Annual Production 6,651 kWh
   
Annual Savings $1,397
   
Payback Period (Break-Even Point)* 4.6 years
   
Annual Rate of Return* 30.1%

 
Direct Savings over Life of System* $89,173

 
Home Value Increase $28,856
   
  
*See Solar-Payback-and-Financials page for details  

Note: the above cost and production estimates are for demonstration purposes only. Actual pricing will depend upon system design configeration, and production will vary based on site conditions.

Related Topics

Benefits of Solar Power | Solar Rebates and Incentives | How to Get Solar